Parametric Assessment of Aircrew Restraint Biodynamics During Horizontal Impact Acceleration
Abstract
A research program was conducted to evaluate the effects of varying ejection seat parameters on aircrew biodynamic response during simulated drogue and parachute opening phases of ejection. The study involved acceleration tests with human and ATD subjects seated in a US16E ejection seat and tested on the AFRL Horizontal Impulse Accelerator (HIA). Biodynamic responses of the subjects were measured and analyzed to ascertain whether the parameters of the US16E seat including the restraint harness, headrest position, and helmet system would alter the risk of neck or spinal injury compared to USAF legacy seat parameters. All human subjects completed the tests without any adverse events, and the US16E seat and restraint system remained structurally intact throughout the testing. Human subject tests did not consistently demonstrate any large increases in responses in the tested US16E seat parameters, with the exception of z-axis head acceleration with the NPD. There were increased neck forces in both ATDs for cells with the Gen 2 helmet due to its increased weight.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 19, 2024
- Accession Number
- AD1230736
Entities
People
- Abigail R. Kerestes
- Christopher B. Albery
- James M. Chase
- John Buhrman
- Perry Chris
- Peter P. Le
Organizations
- Universal Energy Systems